Deputy Program Manager - Water

Job Summary
We are seeking a Deputy Program Manager to support long-term capital improvement programs in Shreveport, Louisiana. This full-time, Shreveport-based role involves providing leadership for two major infrastructure initiatives focused on water, wastewater, and public works improvements.

The ideal candidate will bring technical expertise, program management experience, and strong interpersonal and communication skills. This role offers the opportunity to manage high-impact projects, collaborate with diverse teams, and contribute to critical infrastructure development for the City of Shreveport.

Key Responsibilities

Provide managerial and technical oversight to multidisciplinary teams involved in project execution including project controls, data management, capital delivery, public outreach, regulatory compliance, and construction management.

Establish and lead project teams across multiple disciplines, ensuring efficient and cost-effective resource allocation.

Lead efforts in program planning, budgeting, and setting strategic goals and objectives.

Oversee all aspects of project communications and stakeholder engagement.

Manage for performance, focusing on project profitability, billable utilization, and financial targets.

Support and lead negotiations with regulatory agencies; present program matters to public stakeholders and regulators.

Assist with client development and relationship management, both with existing and prospective clients.

Define and negotiate scope, schedule, and fees with clients and sub-consultants.

Provide leadership and mentoring to junior staff, supporting recruitment and retention efforts.

Lead risk reviews internally and externally; coordinate with risk management teams as needed.

Represent the program at industry conferences and professional associations.

Build and maintain relationships with consultants and contractors for future teaming opportunities.

Enforce and promote safety standards and protocols across all project work.

Carry out other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience:

Bachelors degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field from an accredited institution.

Minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional experience.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Ability to work in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments; willingness to work extended hours if needed.

High proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with Primavera Contract Manager or similar software is preferred.

Demonstrated ability to manage projects from initiation through completion.

Strong collaboration skills, with experience working in multi-discipline teams.

Proven leadership in mentoring junior staff and supporting team development.

Familiarity with public utility infrastructure and regulatory processes (e.g., Consent Decrees) is preferred.

Financial planning and budgeting experience in utility environments is desirable.

Comfort presenting complex technical topics to non-technical audiences.

Experience with water/wastewater treatment, collection, and distribution; stormwater management; and capital project delivery is highly valued.

Familiarity with CSO/SSO compliance and wet-weather overflow technologies is a plus.

Experience with organizational management methodologies and tools is beneficial.

Familiarity with human resources practices and policies is an added advantage.